Professional Documents
Culture Documents
to health and wellness. Unlike my other books, it is not a book that you read all the way
through once, garner the necessary information, and set aside. This book is meant to be an
interactive guide that you refer to frequently, more like a dictionary or the GPS in your car.
It is intended to help you and your doctor know how to proceed when you get a test result
back. It explains what I would do if I were commenting on your tests, and gives you the
science and the rationale that is behind my thinking.
Your unique DNA, and the traits defined by the genes in that DNA is something that has
been inherited from your biological parents. While your DNA does not change over time,
the ability to turn on or off the genes within your DNA is affected by external factors
including diet, toxins, and nutrients.
Nutrigenomics includes the study of how nutrients may turn on or off specific genes to alter
the risk of health issues. Nutrigenomic testing is a measure of imbalances, or mutations in
the DNA of these nutritional pathways, that in turn influence the ability to turn on or off your
genes.
Nutrigenomic SNP testing is something you run only once in your lifetime. The Feel Good
Nutrigenomics book that I have written, describes in detail the value of nutrigenomic
testing, and approaches supplementation based on nutrigenomic data. I have also shared a
computer based program for looking at SNPs that is available online at no cost
through www.knowyourgenetics.com. Additional information about nutrigenomics, as well
as biochemical testing, is available in the DVD series that covers both of these topics
comprehensively.
Nutrigenomic data is just one piece of a larger puzzle that relates to health. The
comprehensive program that I introduced assumes that underlying genetic susceptibility,
infectious agents (virus, bacteria, yeast), environmental toxins (mercury, aluminum,
cadmium, lead, etc.), and stress, all impact your health. The idea behind the program is not
only to look at SNPs, but also to work with your own doctor to run a variety of non-invasive
tests that are designed to detect imbalances in your biochemical pathways, and to address
those imbalances with natural supports and dietary choices. The goal is to address
underlying issues, not just band aid symptoms.
I view biochemical tests as signs along a highway. They let you know where you are in your
journey towards optimal function, and how much further you need to go to reach your goal.
Many individuals run nutrigenomic testing to see where the imbalances are in their
Methylation Cycle. They then add what appears to be appropriate supplementation based
on those nutrigenomic results to support the short cut and the long route around the cycle.
Then they ask me on the discussion group what they should add next. My question to them
is always, “What are your biochemical tests looking like?” Asking me what to do next
without running biochemical testing is like being on your way from your hometown to my
rural town in Maine, and calling me to ask what route to take. How can you ask which route
to take if you cannot answer where you are located? How can you ask how much longer
your trip will take if you don’t know where you are on the Roadmap? This program can help
you to plot your Roadmap to Health, but you need to have a sense of where you are in
order to know what step to take next.
Nutrigenomic testing is a wonderful place to begin as it indicates specific supplementation
to bypass mutations that are identified by SNP testing. But the next critical piece is to be
sure you are running biochemical tests to be sure the support you are adding is sufficient
and having the impact you desire. Biochemical tests are the signposts along the highway
on your Roadmap to Health. You can get started on your journey without nutrigenomic
testing, however, it is virtually impossible to know where you are on the path to health
without running biochemical testing.
The purpose of biochemical testing is to follow up on the supplementation you are using
based on nutrigenomic testing. While you would not want to try to get along without
nutrigenomic testing, especially if your illness is significant, biochemical testing might be
considered even more clarifying than nutrigenomic testing. If you have not run a
nutrigenomic test, you can still get a sense of where you are on your Roadmap to Health by
running biochemical tests. Regardless of whether or not you have nutrigenomic SNP data,
regular biochemical testing lets you know where you are and what supplements may make
a positive impact for you. Nutrigenomic SNP testing gives you an idea about your
underlying genetic weaknesses, but sequential biochemical testing gives you indispensable
feedback on how well your current nutritional support is working.
Unlike DNA based SNP testing, follow up biochemical testing is something you should run
routinely to check that the supplementation you are using is actually making a difference.
The tests I work from are noninvasive in nature and can be run from the privacy of your
own home. I find that there is much better compliance when you have control over when
and where you take a test. You can also run additional blood tests with your own doctor to
supplement the results from urine, hair and fecal testing.
The information contained in this book represents an approach to interpreting test results
that is based upon a significant background in molecular biology and genetics. It is
reflective of my conviction that physical manifestations, such as symptoms and behavior,
have their origins in biochemistry. Those origins can be discovered and addressed, giving
you greater control over your own health and overall sense of wellbeing.
This book systematically goes through the various biochemical tests that I use for my
protocol. It steps you through how to use these tests to guide your supplement choices.
This program is designed to be implemented in conjunction with your doctor, to help you
and your doctor understand how to use biochemical test data to guide supplementation
choices in order to customize this program for your optimal health.
My hope for this book is that it helps each one of you achieve your maximum possible
health and wellness. Many of the adults looking toward this protocol have been sick for ten
or twenty years, having tried most of the options available, and come to this program on
only a very thin thread of hope. Others reading this book have children on the autism
spectrum and have been depleted emotionally and financially without significant progress.
My goal is to give all of you hope, and the guidance necessary so that you can implement
this program with the help of your own doctor.
For those of you reading this book merely looking to increase your lifespan or for
prevention, I am thrilled that you are not dealing with chronic illness, and I expect this book
will help you and your doctor to choose supplements based on biochemical testing to
address longevity and overall health.
At this point, we have almost 70 thousand individuals on my facebook page worldwide, and
almost 20 thousand following the program on the chat group. Those individuals include
adults with a range of health problems including CFS, FM, POTS, MS, ALS, Lupus, and
depression, as well as younger individuals with autism, ADD, ADHD, bipolar disorder and
schizophrenia. I am filled with love and hope for health for all of you, and I extend those
wishes to anyone reading this book. It is my hope that by sharing my rationale behind
supplement suggestions based on biochemical testing, it will enable you with your doctor to
achieve the health you desire.
With love and hope for health always,
Dr. Amy
Purpose of running this test:
An ideal starting point for testing is to run a Hair Elements Analysis. I abbreviate this test to
the acronym HMT. The HMT gives you a sense of the long term status of both toxic and
essential minerals in your body. While the urine and fecal metal tests described in Chapters
2 and 3 are useful, the HMT gives you a broader time view of what is going on with the
minerals in your system. It takes about three months for the one inch of hair that is closest
to your scalp to grow. This is the sample of hair that is tested, so you get a measurement of
the amount of the element that was excreted in your hair over that time period.
I look at a HMT the same way you would view counting the rings on a cross section of a
tree to know how old the tree is. While fecal and urine testing give you up to the moment
data, the amount of an element excreted on the day you collected the sample,
the HMT gives you a historical sense of the major areas of mineral balance to focus on. An
example of the centrality and the value of the HMT data I have been accumulating over the
past decade is my finding that low lithium is a key feature for adults as well as children with
a range of health issues.
Lithium plays a role in B12 transport into the cell. B12 functions at a very critical juncture in
the process of making methyl groups, as well as a range of other functions in your body.
You want to be certain that you have adequate lithium in your body prior to adding high
doses of B12 because of the interaction of lithium with B12 transport. If you add B12 and
other supplements that activate what I call the long route around the methylation cycle, the
route that uses Methionine Synthase (MTR) and Methionine Synthase Reductase
(MTRR), prior to being sure that you have enough lithium in your body, then you run the
risk of further depleting your lithium levels, which can cause symptoms and consequences.
It is also important to be sure that potassium is in balance and well supported when adding
lithium. Addressing both minerals at the same time is useful, as low levels of both lithium
and potassium can induce aggressive and anti-social behavior. Energy supplements can
also impact lithium levels, as well as a number of other minerals, including potassium. If
there is not sufficient energy being generated by the mitochondria in your cells, this can
cause low lithium, low potassium, and problems maintaining adequate levels of other
minerals. Mitochondrial support can be a help in these cases.
The HMT also gives you a sense of the balance between calcium and magnesium, as well
as zinc and copper. Ideally magnesium should be higher than calcium, because calcium
works with glutamate to cause over excitation of nerves. Excess copper relative to zinc can
be a factor in attention problems. Correct copper and zinc levels are also important for
neurotransmitter balance, since copper is a cofactor for the enzymes that break down
dopamine and serotonin.
The HMT is also useful in determining molybdenum balance. Molybdenum and B12 work
together with the enzyme sulfite oxidase to detoxify sulfate from your body. Sulfur levels on
the HMT can be seen as a secondary measure of your need for molybdenum and B12
support. If the sulfur on your HMT is high, you want to be sure that your body has adequate
levels of molybdenum and B12.
Those who are SHMT +, or who have significant bacterial imbalances, should limit iron
supplementation, or use nutrients to help balance iron if the levels are high on
a HMT or UTM/UEE. Iron can increase bacterial virulence, and it increases the activity of
the SHMT pathway, so ideally, serum iron levels should be checked. Consider also
checking Ferritin, Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC), % Saturation, and your Reticulocyte
Count for a complete reading on iron if you are concerned about your iron levels.
The HMT gives you useful information on additional essential minerals, as well as a sense
of the level of toxic metal excretion from your body. When you know what toxins are being
excreted, you can supplement with compounds that may help escort them from your body.
Different ‘escorts’ are applicable for different toxic metals. Aluminum requires different
escorts than mercury or nickel. I suggest running a HMT at least twice a year, and for those
individuals who are MTR +, or who show very low lithium levels on a HMT, then running
a HMT every 3 to 4 months to be certain that essential elements stay in balance is a good
idea.
Finally, when there is a high level of excretion of many essential minerals at the same time,
meaning if you are seeing black lines to the right for multiple essential minerals, this can be
a sign that more mitochondrial support is needed. In this case, running a MAP test to look
at energetic markers, as well as adding additional mitochondrial support, can be
considered. Extremely low potassium and lithium, in the absence of an MTR + status, may
also be a sign that more mitochondrial support is needed.
The role of lithium in B12 transport into the cell is potentially critically
important. Peer reviewed work by Tisman, Herbert, and Rosenblatt
published in the British Journal of Haematology was the first to illustrate
that ingestion of lithium is related to B12 binding. Continuing this research,
Lithium Vanyo and coworkers (Lithium in Biology and Medicine) discuss the finding
that lack of lithium and B12 deficiency share physiological features, and that
support with lithium enhances B12 transport into cells. According to these
researchers, lithium is associated with elevated levels of serum B12 binding
capacity. Furthermore, this group was able to show that lithium increases the
transport of folate into the cell, as well as that of B12.
Additional peer reviewed work by Schrauzer (Biological Trace Element
Research) also supports the role of lithium in B12 transport. The addition of
lithium was shown by Cervantes et al to lower elevated serum B12 levels,
again illustrating lithium’s effecting B12 transport into cells.
Based on this research, it is important to look at lithium levels. I use the
HMT and the UTMEE in combination with each other to assess both lithium
as well as cobalt levels (as a measure of B12). You may also want to look at
serum lithium and B12. In cases in which lithium is low and/or serum B12 is
particularly high, use lithium support prior to the addition of high dose B12.
Lithium support is in All in One, Be Calm Spray, and Lithium Orotate.
Use these with the consent of your doctor. The rationale behind this is to
ensure that you have adequate lithium prior to adding high dose B12,
because increasing B12 in the absence of lithium support may further
deplete lithium levels due to the use of lithium to aid in the transport of the
added B12. Ideally, lithium should be in balance prior to adding excess B12
so as not to create lithium depletion. Low dose maintenance nutritional
levels of lithium support are available in All in One and Be Calm Spray.
Lithium plays a range of additional roles in your body aside from B12 and
folate transport into your cells, so it is important not to deplete this pivotal
trace mineral. Lithium’s impact on mood stabilization has been known and
used clinically for many years, despite the fact that the mechanism by which
this occurs has not been fully elaborated. Norepinephrine imbalances have
been implicated in attention disorders, and Sastre and coworkers have
illustrated an impact of lithium on balancing norepinephrine levels.
Researchers have noted and published effects from lithium on neurological
conditions. Beta amyloid may play a role in Alzheimers Disease and lithium
has been shown to have neuroprotective effects against beta amyloid.
Research from Spain illustrates that lithium has a positive impact on neural
repair after traumatic injury. Maurer (2009) showed that lithium can enable
mitochondrial function, which may be particularly useful in the presence of
toxic metals. Increases in the grey matter of the brain have been tied to
lithium support (Moore) and research from the National Institute of Health
(NIH) showed the induction of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) by
lithium. Especially relevant to this program, lithium was reported by
Hashimoto (2002) to protect against glutamate excitotoxity.
In addition, lithium has been implicated in Lyme disease, as well as having
an impact on Herpes virus (Amsterdam et al).
Lithium may also help to support healthy tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) levels.
Lithium stimulates white cells and platelets, so low levels of lithium may
cause low white cells. Myrrh may help for low white cells.
Those who are MTR + tend to have lower lithium levels.
Ideally, lithium should be in balance before adding extra B12, MethylMate
A, or MethylMate B. MethylMate B is low dose 5-methylTHF.
For general lithium support, consider All in One and Be Calm Spray.
Always support potassium when supplementing lithium.
For levels that are particularly low, consider Lithium Orotate plus some form
of potassium, usually Potassium Citrate. Run regular HMT to assess lithium
levels when adding lithium orotate. Those who are MTR + should do a HMT
every 3 to 4 months.
High level excretion of lithium in the absence of any lithium
supplementation suggests that excretion will lead to future depletion. Thus,
lithium should be added when lithium is either very low, or when high level
excretion is seen in the absence of any lithium supplementation.
Low lithium may also be an issue secondary to a need for mitochondrial
energy support. A MAP test can be run to look at energy markers. Support
for mitochondrial energy can include MitoForce, ATP, Riboflavin-5-
Phosphate, NADH, Krebs minerals.
Lead can deposit in bone and replace calcium there. Lead can also
affect ATPase, which reduces the production of this energy
molecule. This negatively impacts both sodium and potassium
levels, as well as energy production. Lead can bind melatonin,
tryptophan, and serotonin. Consider a MAP test and
a Neurotransmitter Urine Test to look at energy markers, as well as
neurotransmitter levels. Lead excretion can cause pica, teeth/jaw
grinding & aggression. Eating inedible objects may be a sign that
lead is being excreted. You may want to consider support to help
escort it from your system. Elevated 5-amino levulinic acid
(ALA) due to lead toxicity can inhibit Gamma amino butyric acid
Lead (GABA), so consider extra GABA if needed. Since lead replaces
calcium in bones, consider low dose Bone Support nucleotide blend.
Vitamin D and K impact calcium absorption, so consider a mineral
combination that includes vitamin D and K, such
as Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK. Also, for bone health, watch strontium and
boron levels. Consider MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules to support
strontium and boron. Also, consider EDTA and MetalAway (or
selenium + horsetail grass + low dose EDTA + malic acid) to help
escort lead from your system. Also, consider
additional EDTA in EDTA soap or soak as tolerated. Consider
using BactiSolve if you have no shellfish allergies, as another source
of EDTA. Consider ATP and/or MitoForce to support ATPase.
In addition to a wide range of neurological symptoms, mercury can
also cause increased salivation, rashes, and metallic taste in your
mouth. It can impact cytochrome P450, and may replace selenium
in the T4 to T3 reaction, thus causing thyroid hormone imbalances.
Consider support with Selenium or MetalAway. If more detox is
desired, consider DetoxAway. Also, GSH and Indole-3-carbinol may
be used. Ultimately, you can support re-myelination
with Sphingolin. Work on methylation cycle support to help allow
Mercury
the natural detox of mercury. Also, the consider low dose Ion
Transport compound as it may help support detox because it
contains Selenocysteine and Wasabi to aid in escorting mercury from
your system. Basic methylation support includes All in
One, Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC), DHA and Methylation
Support nucleotide blend. Once lithium is shown to be in balance on
a HMT, then consider low dose Methylmate A and Methylmate B,
along with extra B12.
Nickel Nickel can cause significant skin rashes, allergies, dermatitis and
inflammation. Consider Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, especially when
phosphorus is low and nickel toxicity is present. Consider
nucleotide blends such as General Support nucleotide
blend and Cytokine Balance nucleotide blend to help with itching. Clear
Skin spray may be used for topical skin support.
Palladium may impact your liver and kidneys. It can cause free
radical damage to DNA, and allergic reactions, especially for those
with nickel allergies. Consider Kidney Support nucleotide blend, Liver
Support nucleotide blend, Ora-Kidney, Ora-Liv and/or MTHFR A1298C
Palladium
Liver Support capsules. Consider Riboflavin-5-Phosphate to help with
nickel, Quercetin in low doses if COMT status is not an issue,
and General Support nucleotide blend. You can also consider
an Oxidative Damage test to assess damage.
Platinum can cause wheezing, excessive mucous in your nose, and
dermatitis. Consider Zinc Lozenges and low dose Respiratory Support
Platinum
nucleotide blend. Also, Serraflazyme and Air Power may help with
mucous, along with Muscle Fatigue Support compound.
Tellurium is chemically similar to selenium, so consider extra
selenium support when tellurium levels are high. Some options
Tellurium
include MetalAway, low dose Selenocysteine, low dose Ion Transport
compound or other low dose forms of selenium.
Your goal is to keep sodium in the normal range, without its being
too low or excreted to a high degree. The use of Ion Transport
compound and low dose Ion Transport Support nucleotide blend may be
Sodium a help. Sodium is co-absorbed with a range of other nutrients, such
as amino acids, glucose and peptides, so supporting healthy ion
transport can be useful. Since sodium and potassium transport
across your cell membrane uses energy, consider ATP, Riboflavin-5-
Phosphate, and/or MitoForce to support sodium/potassium ATPase.
Also, consider using low dose Ion Transport compound and low
dose Ion Transport Support nucleotide blend. In addition, the use of
Sodium or Potassium Bicarbonate may be considered if your pH is
low on a CSA test or GI Effects test, as a way to support both sodium
and a more balanced pH.
Potassium levels drop coordinately with low lithium, so support
potassium when you are taking lithium. Low potassium can cause
rubidium levels to drop. Your body replaces potassium with
rubidium when potassium is deficient. This can create a rubidium
deficit, which is a factor in aggressive behavior. The approach this
program uses is to consider support with potassium for either low
potassium or low rubidium. Potassium levels that are less than
50ppm or 5%, may indicate copper toxicity. Barium and cesium
may displace or interfere with potassium function. Additional
potassium support may be needed if you have high levels of
barium or cesium excretion.Also, low levels of potassium may be
caused by hydrogen sulfide (H2S) triggering efflux of potassium,
so check sulfur levels on the HMT and UEE, as well as taurine
levels on a UAA. High levels of taurine on a UAA may indicate
higher than ideal H2S levels in your system, which can then cause
low potassium levels.Low levels of potassium can be a factor in
the production of acne.
Potassium Potassium Citrate can be used along with food sources of potassium to
support potassium. If your pH is low on a CSA test or GI Effects test,
then Potassium Bicarbonate can be considered to both support potassium and
to help balance pH. If Krebs intermediates are low on a MAP test,
consider Potassium Krebs Intermediates if you do not have glutamate/
GABA imbalance.
Potassium transport across the cell membrane is an energetic process, so
consider ATP, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, and/or MitoForce to support
sodium/potassium ATPase if your potassium is low.
Arginine may have a positive impact on potassium levels. Those who
struggle with consistently low potassium, especially athletes, may consider
low dose Arginine support if your levels of arginine are low on a UAA
test. AminoAssist is one source of low dose arginine.
High levels of sulfur can put excessive stress on SUOX, the sulfite
oxidase enzyme, which appears below the cystathionine beta
synthase (CBS) enzyme in the transsulfuration pathway portion of
the methylation cycle. The SUOX enzyme needs B12 and
molybdenum for activity. So, high sulfur can result in increased
usage of B12 and molybdenum that are needed for other functions
in your body. Low molybdenum can mediate an increase in copper,
and unbalance your zinc/copper ratio, which can then affect
attention, reduce heavy metal detox, and cause other symptoms.
Depletion of B12 can limit enzyme activity in the long route, the
Sulfur
reaction in your methylation cycle that uses the MTR and MTRR
enzymes. If your sulfur levels are high, consider using
additional Molybdenum and B12 once your lithium is in balance on
a HMT. You may also consider using Black Bear Spray or Black Bear
Drink, which is a combination form of molybdenum and B12.
Consider a UAA test to be sure that your taurine levels are not high,
as high taurine would also put increased pressure on sulfite oxidase
activity.For low levels of sulfur support, use healthy sulfur donors
that have other positive attributes such
as Garlic, Broccoli, Wasabi, SAM-e, or N-Acetyl Cysteine.
Manganese is important for helping to process arginine, so
consider supporting with low dose Manganese if arginine is high on
a UAA test. However, high levels of manganese are a concern for
the reasons described below. Ideally, your manganese levels are in
the lower range of normal so that they are sufficient to support
reactions that require manganese without allowing levels to climb
Manganese
too high. Proper manganese levels are important to preserve
acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter. Low manganese can
also impair the function of your Krebs energy cycle. Low levels of
manganese can cause hearing loss and low sex drive. Low
manganese can cause low cholesterol, imbalances in alkaline
phosphatase levels, and decreased T cells.Most bacteria use iron
for growth, but Borrelia burgdorferi uses manganese, so low
manganese may be seen in Lyme disease. Manganese levels may
also drop with H. pylori infection. Consider ruling out H. pylori or
Lyme disease if you have chronically low levels of manganese.
Iron can compete with manganese for uptake, so be sure iron is in balance.
To support low levels of manganese, consider MTR/MTRR/SUOX
capsules, Manganese Drops, and Glucosamine/Chondroitin Plus. Consider T
cell and B cell support capsules immune support. AHCY/SHMT
compound or Lactoferrin may help to get iron in better balance.
Conversely, excessively high levels of manganese can cause psychosis as
well as seizures. Excessive accumulation of manganese causes a
neurological condition called “manganism” that is characterized by
psychosis and eventually followed by symptoms similar to those seen in
Parkinson’s disease. High levels of manganese have also been associated
with ALS and biochemical changes similar to Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s
disease (Sidoryk-Wegrzynowicz, 2013). High levels of manganese can cause
increases in reactive oxygen species (so consider Ultifend), impair
glutathione levels (consider GSH) and increase inflammatory mediators
(consider General Support nucleotide blend and low dose TNF nucleotide
blend). High dose manganese may also decrease dopamine levels.
Toxic doses of manganese can impact both GABA and taurine levels and
affect their transport. If an individual is intolerant to GABA supplementation
in spite of symptoms that suggest a need for GABA, then check manganese
levels to be sure they are not exceedingly high. The use of valerian root in
conjunction with low dose GABA may be a consideration for you and your
doctor, as valerian may aid in GABA transport. If high manganese is the
issue, consider increased EDTA support. Working with, and deferring to
your own doctor consider the use of MetalAway, DetoxAway, EDTA
soap and soak, and additional EDTA capsules can be considered.
If very high levels are seen, rule out high manganese in your home water
supply by using the Water Elements Test. Some defective water filtration
systems may be a source of higher than ideal levels of manganese in your
drinking and bathing water supply.
The role of lithium in B12 transport into the cell is potentially critically
important. Peer reviewed work by Tisman, Herbert, and Rosenblatt
published in the British Journal of Haematology was the first to illustrate
that ingestion of lithium is related to B12 binding. Continuing this research,
Vanyo and coworkers (Lithium in Biology and Medicine) discuss the finding
that lack of lithium and B12 deficiency share physiological features, and that
Lithium
support with lithium enhances B12 transport into cells. According to these
researchers, lithium is associated with elevated levels of serum B12 binding
capacity. Furthermore, this group was able to show that lithium increases the
transport of folate into the cell, as well as that of B12.
Additional peer reviewed work by Schrauzer (Biological Trace Element
Research) also supports the role of lithium in B12 transport. The addition of
lithium was shown by Cervantes et al to lower elevated serum B12 levels,
again illustrating lithium’s effecting B12 transport into cells.
Based on this research, it is important to look at lithium levels. I use the
HMT and the UTMEE in combination with each other to assess both lithium
as well as cobalt levels (as a measure of B12). You may also want to look at
serum lithium and B12. In cases in which lithium is low and/or serum B12 is
particularly high, use lithium support prior to the addition of high dose B12.
Lithium support is in All in One, Be Calm Spray, and Lithium Orotate.
Use these with the consent of your doctor. The rationale behind this is to
ensure that you have adequate lithium prior to adding high dose B12,
because increasing B12 in the absence of lithium support may further
deplete lithium levels due to the use of lithium to aid in the transport of the
added B12. Ideally, lithium should be in balance prior to adding excess B12
so as not to create lithium depletion. Low dose maintenance nutritional
levels of lithium support are available in All in One and Be Calm Spray.
Lithium plays a range of additional roles in your body aside from B12 and
folate transport into your cells, so it is important not to deplete this pivotal
trace mineral. Lithium’s impact on mood stabilization has been known and
used clinically for many years, despite the fact that the mechanism by which
this occurs has not been fully elaborated. Norepinephrine imbalances have
been implicated in attention disorders, and Sastre and coworkers have
illustrated an impact of lithium on balancing norepinephrine levels.
Researchers have noted and published effects from lithium on neurological
conditions. Beta amyloid may play a role in Alzheimers Disease and lithium
has been shown to have neuroprotective effects against beta amyloid.
Research from Spain illustrates that lithium has a positive impact on neural
repair after traumatic injury. Maurer (2009) showed that lithium can enable
mitochondrial function, which may be particularly useful in the presence of
toxic metals. Increases in the grey matter of the brain have been tied to
lithium support (Moore) and research from the National Institute of Health
(NIH) showed the induction of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) by
lithium. Especially relevant to this program, lithium was reported by
Hashimoto (2002) to protect against glutamate excitotoxity.
In addition, lithium has been implicated in Lyme disease, as well as having
an impact on Herpes virus (Amsterdam et al).
Lithium may also help to support healthy tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) levels.
Lithium stimulates white cells and platelets, so low levels of lithium may
cause low white cells. Myrrh may help for low white cells.
Those who are MTR + tend to have lower lithium levels.
Ideally, lithium should be in balance before adding extra B12, MethylMate
A, or MethylMate B. MethylMate B is low dose 5-methylTHF.
For general lithium support, consider All in One and Be Calm Spray.
Always support potassium when supplementing lithium.
For levels that are particularly low, consider Lithium Orotate plus some form
of potassium, usually Potassium Citrate. Run regular HMT to assess lithium
levels when adding lithium orotate. Those who are MTR + should do a HMT
every 3 to 4 months.
High level excretion of lithium in the absence of any lithium
supplementation suggests that excretion will lead to future depletion. Thus,
lithium should be added when lithium is either very low, or when high level
excretion is seen in the absence of any lithium supplementation.
Low lithium may also be an issue secondary to a need for mitochondrial
energy support. A MAP test can be run to look at energy markers. Support
for mitochondrial energy can include MitoForce, ATP, Riboflavin-5-
Phosphate, NADH, Krebs minerals.
A number of individuals tend to excrete toxins more readily through their stool rather than in
urine or via hair. Particularly when there are imbalances in gut microbes and you are working
to address the gut, you may see more excretion of toxins in the stool than in urine.
Unfortunately, the Fecal Toxic Metals Test (FMT) does not include aluminum. Since aluminum
retention may be an issue with non-ideal gut microbes, if this is a concern, you should also run
either a UTM/UEE or a HMT to follow aluminum excretion. Aluminum can negatively impact
BH4 levels, so it is important to know what is happening with aluminum in your system to
determine proper support for BH4 levels.
Antimony can bind to ‘thiol’, which means SH groups, which are needed to
help escort mercury from your system. Also, antimony may inhibit the MAO
enzymes, which may interfere with the natural breakdown of dopamine and
serotonin. Antimony can accumulate in your adrenals and thus play a role in
Antimony fatigue. Consider adding sources of ‘thiol’ groups, such
as Selenium, MetalAway, or DetoxAway. Consider low dose Wasabi, low
dose Selenocysteine, and/or low dose Ion Transport compound, which has
both Wasabi and Selenocysteine. Broccoli and Garlic are also options. Also,
consider OraAdrenal for adrenal support.
High levels of cadmium can cause significant symptoms. Your body uses zinc
as a cofactor for over 50 critical enzymes. However, if zinc is deficient, your
body will replace it with cadmium. Cadmium is just below zinc in the periodic
table, so it fits perfectly into zinc binding sites. Enzymes that make protein,
such as RNA transferase, and alcohol dehydrogenase, the enzyme involved in
alcohol processing, are impacted by this problem. Other important enzymes
Cadmium are also negatively impacted. Cadmium may also bind to glutathione (GSH)
making it ineffective. It may also negatively impact bone health and cause
respiratory symptoms. Consider supporting with Zinc Lozenges, or Krebs
Zinc, if your Krebs intermediates are low on a MAP test. Also,
consider MetalAway and/or EDTA to help escort cadmium from your system.
Since cadmium can bind GSH, consider supporting with GSH. Low dose Bone
Support nucleotide blend may also be helpful. Cadmium may decrease the
Cytochrome P450 enzyme system, so consider Indole-3-carbinol to support
CYP 450. Since cadmium replaces zinc in arteries, adults may want to
consider low dose Heart Support nucleotide blend and Hawthorn Extract.
Also, consider Vitamin E and low dose Ion Transport support capsules for
cadmium, as it may help to prevent the cadmium induced suppression of the
CFTR enzyme. Also, work on supporting methylation, as weak methylation
capacity is related to susceptibility to cadmium.In addition, lithium, which is
in both BeCalm Spray and All in One, may help to protect against the
negative impacts of cadmium, especially with respect to hormones such as
testosterone, LH, and FSH.
Ideally, your copper levels should be lower than zinc to favor a higher zinc to
copper ratio. High copper has been implicated in ADD. Copper is the cofactor
that works with the enzymes MAO A and MAO B to break down dopamine
and serotonin, so high copper may engender a higher degree of degradation
of these two neurotransmitters. Running a Neurotransmitter Urine Test and
a MAP test gives you an indication of both the levels of serotonin and
dopamine, and a measure of their breakdown. Excess copper has also been
reported to cause fearful thoughts. If copper replaces zinc in your brain, it
may be a factor in migraines, so zinc support may help you with this, as well
as bring your copper into better balance.
Much less frequently, the issue is actually low copper. Low copper may cause
high histamine. The enzyme that breaks down histamine is a copper
containing MAO type of enzyme, so if your copper is low, check to see if your
histamine is high. Quercetin may help pull down histamine but inhibits
COMT, so use quercetin in moderation. A natural source of quercetin is
Copper cherries. Cherries are also a source of melatonin. Tart Cherry Extract is
reported to be helpful for gout.
Ways to help bring copper into better balance include the use
of Molybdenum, Zinc, Carnosine, and increased EDTA. EDTA is found
in MetalAway, EDTA soap or soak, and DetoxAway. You can also
use BactiSolve if you have NO shellfish allergies.
Lead can deposit in bone and replace calcium there. Lead can also affect
ATPase, which reduces the production of this energy molecule. This
negatively impacts both sodium and potassium levels, as well as energy
production. Lead can bind melatonin, tryptophan, and serotonin. Consider
a MAP test and a Neurotransmitter Urine Test to look at energy markers, as
well as neurotransmitter levels.Lead excretion can cause pica, teeth/jaw
grinding & aggression. Eating inedible objects may be a sign that lead is being
excreted. You may need to consider support to help escort it from your
system. Elevated 5-amino levulinic acid (ALA) due to lead toxicity can
inhibit Gamma amino butyric acid (GABA), so consider extra GABA if
Lead
needed.Since lead replaces calcium in bones, consider low dose Bone
Support nucleotide blend. Vitamin D and K impact calcium absorption, so
add a mineral combination that includes vitamin D and K, such
as Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK. Also, for bone health, watch strontium and boron
levels. Consider MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules to support strontium and boron.
Also, consider EDTA and MetalAway (or selenium + horsetail grass + low dose
EDTA + malic acid) to help escort lead from your system. Also, consider
additional EDTA in EDTA soap or soak as tolerated. Consider
using BactiSolve if you have no shellfish allergies, as another source of EDTA.
Consider ATP and/or MitoForce to support ATPase.
Thallium inhibits mitochondrial energy and ATP. It also inhibits DNA and RNA
synthesis. It may cause hair loss and anorexia. Thallium can also cause
Thallium riboflavin to be sequestered in the body. So Riboflavin-5-Phosphate support
should be considered, especially if MAP test results show imbalances in the
Krebs energy cycle. Consider support with ATP, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate,
and/or MitoForce to address the impact on energy. Also, All in One for low
dose DNA and RNA support, and AHCY/SHMT compound, or direct addition
of nucleotides.
Tungsten interferes with molybdenum, may cause DNA damage, and may be
a factor in impaired sense of smell. Tungsten can interfere with SUOX, so
consider B12, provided that lithium is in balance. Also, watch levels of
molybdenum, boron, and manganese. Provided that lithium is in balance,
support with B12 formulas like Hydroxy B12 spray, Methyl B12
Tungsten MegaDrops, Hydroxy B12 MegaDrops, or Adenosyl B12
MegaDrops. Consider MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules to help support
molybdenum, boron and manganese. Consider a DNA oxidation test, and if
DNA damage/oxidation is a concern, then
consider Ultifend and/or Quercetin. Keep in mind that high dose quercetin
may be an issue for those who are COMT ++.
Uranium can readily combine with nucleotides in your body and can deposit
in the bones. Also, it can cause chronic fatigue. Consider testing your home
water supply using a Water Elements Test, and do a radon air test if you
continue to excrete high levels of uranium over time. Consider All in One for
Uranium low dose nucleotide support. Use AHCY/SHMT compound for nucleotide
support, or direct nucleotide supplementation. Consider using Muscle
Fatigue Support compound and low dose Bone Support nucleotide blend.
Use Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK so that vitamin D and K are present to help with
calcium absorption.
Purpose of running this test:
The Metabolic Analysis Profile (MAP test) gives information about intermediates in a
number of biochemical pathways in your body. Important methylation cycle markers such
as FIGLU, a marker for folate, and methylmalonic acid, a marker for B12, are included in
this test.
Additionally, the MAP test gives information about the turnover and/or breakdown products
of several neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine. These are useful in
conjunction with neurotransmitter testing to determine the causes of problems such as
mood instability, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), or the need for
nutritional neurotransmitter support.
The MAP test also generates data about critical energy intermediates and your
mitochondrial function. Mitochondrial disorder is being recognized as a factor in the
declining health of increasing numbers of both adults and children. MAP testing is useful for
assessing the level of mitochondrial energy intermediates including intermediates in the
mitochondrial Krebs cycle. Oxalate is part of the Krebs energy cycle along with other
compounds such as malate and fumarate.
In conjunction with a CSA and GI test, the MAP test can reveal problems with the
breakdown of fats in your body and show intermediates that indicate ketosis. In addition,
these three tests contain information about bacterial or yeast infestations or infections.
In general, the MAP test helps you determine areas you need to focus on for additional
testing and/or treatment. As noted in the ‘related tests’ section below, high values for
specific intermediates on this test help you target which additional tests and/or
supplementation may be needed.
Neurotransmitter Test
Gut Environment
For imbalances in the levels of elastase and long
chain fatty acids, consider 1 or 2 Special Digestive
Enzymes (SDE) with each meal, along with 1 or
more FOK capsules daily for pancreatic support, and
Elastase Long chain fatty support for pancreatin and digestive enzymes. If this
acids is not sufficient to get elastase levels into the normal
range, then also consider an ACAT/BHMT
capsules with each meal. Run a HMT and UTM to rule
out high thorium, since thorium can bind and inhibit
digestive enzymes.
Imbalances in the levels of these compounds suggest
problems with fat digestion and carbohydrate
absorption. If these are out of balance, consider 1 or
Short chain fatty acids 2 Special Digestive Enzymes (SDE) with each meal. In
(SCFA)Fat addition, Biotin and low dose Adenosyl B12 help with
StainTriglyceridesCarbohy fat digestion and are key nutrients for imbalances in
drates SCFA. Order a MAP test to rule out ketosis, as well as
a UAA to look at overall nutrient absorption. If high
levels of carbohydrate are seen and/or there are low
amino acids on a UAA, then consider Bowel Support
nucleotide blend /or Leaky Gut nucleotide blend, as well
as VitaOrgan, AminoAssist and Ora-Placenta. SCFA also
play a regulatory role with respect to T cells and
inflammation, so consider T cell and B cell support
capsules for immune support if SCFA are out of
balance.
High levels of propionate, or propionic acid, may be
produced by intestinal bacteria, such as
Propionate Propionibacterium, after the use of antibiotics, in
particular clindamycin. Carnitine and Carnosine may
offset the impact of high levels of propionic acid.
Increased butyric acid, or butyrate, may be due to
Butyrate Fusobacterium or Roseburia. Consider Goldenseal, a
component of Naturomycin, to address butyrate.
When acetate is high, check the CSA / GI for signs of
yeast infection, as the acetaldehyde produced by
Candida can be converted to acetate, or acetic acid.
This conversion uses Molybdenum, so be sure
Acetate
molybdenum is supported, or that Black Bear Spray is
in place. The processing of acetaldehyde also may
use the cofactor PQQ, so consider Ultimate B as a
natural source of PQQ.
High vegetable and muscle fibers suggest poor
digestion. Consider 1 or 2 Special Digestive
Enzymes(SDE) with each meal. Not all digestive
enzymes are equal, and many do not have sufficient
pancreatin. The reason I recommend SDE is that they
are higher in pancreatin, along with a more complete
Vegetable fibers and
range of additional digestive enzymes. Consider low
Muscle fibers
dose Muscle Support nucleotide blend and low dose Ion
Transport nucleotide blend. The Muscle Support nucleotide
blend may help keep muscle breakdown in a more
normal range. The Ion Transport nucleotide blend may
aid in balancing excess mucous in the gut that can
contribute to digestive issues.
If your cholesterol levels are high, you can consider
low dose Red Rice Yeast. When using any supplement
Cholesterol
or medication that helps to keep cholesterol in a
normal range, also use CoQ10.
These compounds are all markers of inflammation,
and may also indicate infection. When they are high,
LysozymeLactoferrinWhit
consider AHCY/SHMT compound, SHMT Spray, and/or
e blood cellsMucus Red
extra Lactoferrin to take the pressure off of your body
blood cells Occult blood
to produce lactoferrin, and to prevent its depletion in
your system. To help with inflammation, and to have
these markers stay in the normal range,
consider Inflammatory Pathway Support
capsules and/or Inflammove, as well as Bowel Support
nucleotide blend, Cytokine Balance nucleotide blend, as
well as General Support nucleotide blend. For the
presence of red blood cells, consider Vitamin
K and Mastica Gum. Rule out Helicobacter pylori and
hemolytic E.Coli as causes of blood in your stool. For
excess white cells, consider Myrrh. Also, check
lithium levels on a UEE and HMT, because lithium
can be stimulating for white cells. If lithium is low,
consider Be Calm Spray, All in One, and, if
needed, Lithium Orotate. For excess mucus,
consider Ion Transport nucleotide blend, Muscle Fatigue
Support compound and Serraflazyme.
This table contains the rationale behind my suggestions. These suggestions are
Result for your consideration. Defer your choices to your own health care practitioner,
as always.
H.pyl The approach I suggest for consideration with your doctor is designed to
ori interfere with a number of aspects of H. pylori function. This approach
positi addresses the excess mucus that enables H. pylori to remain undetected in
ve your GI tract, and makes the organism more accessible to anti-infective
antige agents. It includes supplements that may limit H. pylori growth, those that
n test generate a healthy level of inflammatory mediators, and balancing
nutrients such as carnitine that H. pylori may compromise. Suggestions for
consideration for supplementation with natural supports can
include HELX nucleotide blend, Bowel Support nucleotide blend, cycling on
and off Peptimycin, and Potassium Bicarbonate or sodium bicarbonate. The
choice of sodium or potassium is dependent upon your levels of these
minerals on a HMT and UEE. Consider low dose Hydroxy B12 and Adenosyl
B12 once lithium is in balance, in addition to Potassium, Magnesium,
and Biotin. Stomach pH Balancing nucleotide blend, Buffer pH,
and VitaOrgan work to balance the gut pH. Also consider Carnitine, and low
doses of both Ion Transport compound and Ion Transport nucleotide blend.
Although the natural H.pylori approach presented above suggests the use
of multiple supplements/herbs simultaneously, the same is true for a
traditional medical approach to this organism. H.pylori is difficult to
eradicate, so it requires a number of compounds over time, and a
concerted effort to address this microbial imbalance. Standard medical
approaches can be employed with the help of your doctor. These
traditional approaches involve the use of multiple antibiotics and
additional pharmaceuticals, including proton pump inhibitors and a
source of bismuth and bicarbonate. For standard approaches
see: http://www.globalrph.com/antibiotic/hpylori.htm and http://www.uptodate.co
m/contents/treatment-regimens-for-helicobacter-pyloriIt has been observed that
the number of individuals with autism testing positive for the
bacterium Helicobacter pylori is much higher than would be expected. One
third of the adult population is reported to harbor H.pylori. In contrast, this
number is generally not as high in the pediatric population. I have found
that the autistic population is as high as 50 percent and that has been
found by others to be in that range too. Changes in the mucous layer
environment in children with autism may be a predisposing factor that
accounts for this observed increase in H. pylori in that
population.Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative, spiral-shaped bacterium
that lives in the mucous layer of the stomach and duodenum. This ulcer-
causing gastric pathogen is able to colonize the harsh acidic environment
of the human stomach. Although the stomach is protected from its own
gastric juice by a thick layer of mucus that covers the stomach lining, H.
pylori takes advantage of this protection by living in the mucus lining
itself. In the mucus lining, H. pylori survives the stomach’s acidic
conditions by producing urease, an enzyme that catalyzes hydrolysis of
urea into ammonia and bicarbonate. As strong bases, ammonia and
bicarbonate produce a cloud of alkalinity around the bacterium, making it
impossible for the body’s normal defenses such as T cells, natural killer
cells, and other white blood cells, to get to it in the gastric mucus layer.
Because H. pylori burrows into the mucus layer of the stomach and is very persistent
there, it is difficult to get a positive test for it even when it is present. In addition, H.
pylori can remain for long periods of time and is extremely difficult to eradicate.
Many factors that have been identified as playing a role in autism are related to H.
pylori, including problems with gluten and casein, breakdown of glutathione, excess
stomach acid, and the high norepinephrine seen in ADD and ADHD. H.
pylori affects neurotransmitters and brain neurochemistry. H. pylori infection
increases the incidence of food allergy by facilitating the passage of intact proteins
across the gastric epithelial barrier. H. pylori depletes secretin, which has previously
been reported to have positive impacts in some cases of speech delay.
Arginine makes urea to neutralize stomach acid, or, alternately, makes an
intermediate such as nitric oxide that relaxes blood vessels. When H.
pylori infection is present, it induces arginine to produce urea as opposed to nitric
oxide because urea provides the alkalinity necessary for its survival. In this way, H.
pylori depletes arginine through its overuse of the enzyme arginase. The depletion of
arginine impacts the mitochondria, reducing mitochondrial energy production from
glucose.
When H. pylori infection is present, it changes the way important phospholipids are
positioned in the cell membrane. Phospholipid orientation has been described as
playing a role in ADD/ADHD, as well as in immune system signaling. H. pylori also
decreases levels of B12 in the body; decreases iron levels; increases ammonia and
taurine; and can produce glaucoma in young individuals that resolves when the H.
pylori is treated.
H. pylori infection is not just an immediate acute infection. Rather, it is a long-term,
chronic problem that may take months or years to eradicate. Chronic H.
pylori gastritis alters feeding behaviors, delays gastric emptying, alters gastric
neuromuscular function, and impairs acetylcholine release. These effects can persist
for months after the infection has been eradicated. Please watch the H.
pylori DVDs to understand more fully the rationale behind this program and the
magnitude of the impact H.pylori can have on your body.
Purpose of running this test:
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can damage lipid, protein, and nucleic acid in your cells by
oxidizing them. This increases the chemical stress in your body called oxidative stress. A
result of oxidative stress is damage to your DNA, which produces 8-
hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), which is excreted in your urine. Your level of
oxidative stress can be determined by running an Oxidative Damage Test.
Numerous articles and research studies have indicated that urinary 8-OHdG is not only a
marker for generalized, cellular oxidative stress, but might also be associated with a high
risk for cancer, including bladder and prostate cancer. In addition, it has been associated
with other health conditions, including atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, cystic fibrosis,
atopic dermatitis, and diabetes. Evidence suggests that higher levels of 8-OHdG are also
seen in cases of chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia and depression.
Elevated levels of urinary 8-OHdG have been detected in patients with various types of
cancers. Increased levels of modified DNA and 8-OHdG have been found in human
atherosclerotic plaque. Elevated urinary 8-OHdG and leukocyte DNA were also detected in
diabetic patients with hyperglycemia, or elevated blood sugar, and the level of urinary 8-
OHdG in diabetes correlated with the severity of diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy.
This Neurotransmitter Test assays neurotransmitters that function in your brain and body in
ways that define your personality and physical abilities. Low serotonin has been implicated in
OCD, perseverative behavior, depression, anxiety, and GI dysfunction. Dopamine is critical for
executive function, attention, focus, goal motivated behavior, and mood. Dopamine is further
converted into nor-epinephrine and epinephrine, neurotransmitters in themselves that may be
associated with hyperactivity and attention deficit. A higher ratio of norepinephrine relative to
epinephrine appears to be associated with ADD/ADHD.
I use several tests to get a complete sense of neurotransmitter formation, balance, and
breakdown. First, I look at the level of the starting material for the neurotransmitteritself. In
the example of serotonin,I am looking atthe level of the amino acid tryptophan. For dopamine,
I am looking at the phenylalanine and tyrosine levels. These are measured on a UAA.
I can then compare how much amino acid is present versus how much of it is converting into
its neurotransmitter, that level being measured by this test. From these two values, I make
inferences concerning the availability of BH4 in your body. BH4 is needed to convert
tryptophan into the neurotransmitter serotonin. It is also needed to convert both
phenylalanine into the amino acid tyrosine, and tyrosine into the neurotransmitter dopamine.
If these conversions are not happening well, I consider that BH4 may be low.
Finally, the level of the breakdown products of these neurotransmitters are measured on the
MAP test, the rate of neurotransmitter breakdown being a decisive factor in the final level of
neurotransmitter present in your body.
So, in order to assess neurotransmitter status and performance, I first look at a UAA to
determine the level of the starting amino acid for the neurotransmitter in question. Then, I
look at the reported neurotransmitter level on this Neurotransmitter Test. Finally, I look at
a MAP test to get the measurement of neurotransmitter breakdown products. From the UAA
and the neurotransmitter test results, I may also draw conclusions about BH4 levels.
This method of evaluating neurotransmitter (NT) status gives me a more complete picture of
the status of neurotransmitter formation, balance, and breakdownin your body, rather than
looking at reported neurotransmitter levels alone.
Finally, remember that all values on a urine test are reported after correcting for the creatinine
level. What this means is that the raw value for a particular NT is divided by the value of
creatinine to give you the final number you see on the test. Sometimes, if a person has
significant physical or psychological stressors in their body or life, the creatinine value can be
very high. This will make your NT values look low. So keep in mind the creatinine number, and
if it is above around 150, realize that your NT values may look lower than they actually are.
Conversely, if you used a very dilute urine sample for the test, then your creatinine may be
very low. This means that all urine sample values are divided by a small number, which will
make your NT values look higher than they actually are. If your creatinine level is below around
50, then be aware that your NT values may appear high.